Epoxy lamination with fiberglass, carbon & Kevlar Laminating epoxy produces strong, durable laminates with excellent adhesion and low shrinkage. The process is similar to polyester (same rollers/technique), but epoxy generally adheres better and has a lower odor. Pay attention to the pot life: for vertical work and large surfaces, choose...
Epoxy for laminating (4)
Epoxy lamination with fiberglass, carbon & Kevlar
Laminating epoxy produces strong, durable laminates with excellent adhesion and low shrinkage. The process is similar to polyester (same rollers/technique), but epoxy generally adheres better and has a lower odor. Pay attention to the pot life: for vertical work and large surfaces, choose a suitable fast- or slow-hardening hardener.
Why laminating epoxy?
- ✓ Strong adhesion to substrates and between layers; less delamination
- ✓ Low viscosity and good wet-out of glass, carbon and aramid fabrics
- ✓ High mechanical performance ; optional post-cure for higher Tg/heat resistance
- ✓ Marine-ready: ideal for boat building/repair and composite parts
Tip: Epoxy gels more slowly than many polyesters. Use the correct pot life and temperature (approx. 18–25°C) to prevent sagging.
Compatibility with fibers & mats
- → Glass fiber (woven/UD), carbon and kevlar/aramid: excellent for epoxy
- → CSM (chopped strand mat): Use only powder-bonded CSM with epoxy. Emulsion-bonded CSM is for polyester/vinyl ester.
- → Filling can: add conductive or insulating fillers to control properties
Choose your laminating system
| Scenario | Featured Properties | What to look out for |
|---|---|---|
| Hand lay-up (general) | Low to medium viscosity, standard hardener | Work at 18–25°C; minimize air entrapment |
| Vacuum bagging / infusion | Very low viscosity, longer pot life | Flow through the stack plan; controlled heating |
| Vertical lamination / quick fix | Fast hardener, thixotropic additive possible | Note sag; thin layers in multiple passes |
| Marine epoxy (boat/canoe/surf) | Good adhesion to wood/fiberglass, moisture resistant | Possibly post-cure and suitable coating/UV protection |
| High Tg / heat resistant | System with higher glass transition temperature | Post-treatment (post-cure) according to datasheet |
Processing methods
Hand Lay-up
- Position fabrics dry; apply epoxy with roller/brush influences
- Remove air with a deaeration roller; work in thin layers
- Apply the next coat within the chemical bonding time
Vacuum Bagging / Infusion
- Stacking plan: clean mold, peel ply, tear-woven felt, flow media, and vacuum foil
- Low viscosity resin with extended pot life for good flow
- Check leakage and cure schedule; optional post-cure
Practical tips
- Preparation : Clean and degrease the mold/surface; cut away loose fibers.
- → Mixing: weigh accurately, including the edges and bottom; if necessary, mix again in a second beaker
- → Temperature: 18–25°C and draught-free; higher T = shorter pot life
- → Resin/fiber ratio: guideline value for hand lay-up fiberglass approx. 1.0–1.3× fiber weight
- → Safety: gloves, goggles, ventilation; follow TDS/SDS
FAQ - Laminating epoxy
What is the advantage of epoxy over polyester when laminating?
Better adhesion, lower shrinkage, and often higher mechanical performance; however, a longer pot life/gel time and higher raw material prices.
Can I use CSM with epoxy?
Yes, but choose powder-bound CSM. Emulsion-bound CSM is intended for polyester/vinyl ester (styrene dissolves the binder).
Which pot life do I choose?
Small/thick sections or warm weather → longer pot life. Fast repairs/vertical parts → shorter pot life. Adjust batch size and ambient temperature accordingly.
Do I need to post-cure?
Only if you need a higher Tg/heat resistance or maximum properties. Follow the recommended post-treatment schedule.
Does epoxy bond to wood, carbon and kevlar?
Yes. Ensure surfaces are clean, dust- and grease-free, and there is sufficient resin impregnation (wet-out).
Advice & order
Are you unsure whether to choose hand lay-up or vacuum bagging, or do you need a marine epoxy with a higher Tg? We'll help you choose the right epoxy laminating resin and hardener.